It is now easier and more affordable than ever to purchase and install solar shingles on your roof, as a means of saving energy and reducing electricity costs in the long run.

When you think about solar power, do you picture bulky panels protruding from rooftops? If so, think again. With the advent of solar shingles—photovoltaic cells designed to look like asphalt roofing shingles—home-based solar power is becoming more appealing, both aesthetically and economically.

Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.

Listen to BOB VILA ON SOLAR SHINGLES or read the text below:

Photo: solarpowerauthority.com

Thanks to advancements in thin-film photovoltaics, these slim-profile shingles are lightweight and flexible. They integrate almost seamlessly with traditional asphalt shingles, although, because they tend to be dark in color, they blend in best with dark roofs.

Solar shingles are most commonly used in conjunction with the existing power grid. This ensures that your home has power even when the sun doesn’t shine. It also means that if you’re lucky enough to generate more power than you use, you may be able to sell the excess back to the power company.

Solar shingles must be installed by a qualified roofing contractor, and you’ll need an electrician to hook them up to your electrical system and install an “inverter,” which converts the direct current they generate to standard AC power.

These shingles make solar a more accessible and attractive option, but they’re still pricey. As with any big purchase, do a careful cost analysis, and don’t forget to look into solar tax credits.

Bob Vila Radio is a newly launched daily radio spot carried on more than 75 stations around the country (and growing). You can get your daily dose here, by listening to—or reading—Bob’s 60-second home improvement radio tip of the day.